Joe Carr (Texas musician)

Joe Carr (born July 16, 1942, Ralls, Texas; died March 29, 2014, Ralls, Texas) was an American bluegrass, country, and gospel musician, known primarily for his mastery of the mandolin and guitar. A self-taught musician, Carr began playing professionally in his teens and developed a unique and influential picking style.

Carr co-founded the bluegrass group the Country Gazette in the early 1970s with Byron Berline, Roger Bush, and Alan Munde. He later left to pursue other musical interests, including his solo career and session work.

Throughout his career, Carr recorded several solo albums showcasing his instrumental prowess and compositional skills. He was also a sought-after session musician, contributing to recordings by artists such as Ricky Skaggs, Emmylou Harris, and Linda Ronstadt. He also wrote instructional books and videos for mandolin and guitar, helping to preserve and pass on his distinctive playing style to future generations. In addition to his performing and recording career, Carr was a dedicated teacher and mentor, influencing countless musicians. His contributions to bluegrass and acoustic music have cemented his place as a significant figure in Texas music history.